Simple Flourless Chocolate Cake

I was sent home from the Napa conference at the Culinary Institute of America with a plethora of recipes. As I was paging through some materials from the Bean Institute and a couple of other bean associations, I came across this recipe – a chocolate cake based on chickpeas. I thought I’d give it a try because I have several friends with celiac disease who are always looking for simple and tasty gluten-free options.

A cake doesn’t get any easier than this one, that is of course if you’re not baking with a pre-made box or eating a store-bought cake This recipe contains only 5 ingredients which makes it perfect if (a) you’re strapped for resources, such as baking in someone else’s kitchen or on vacation (b) you need to make a gluten-free dessert last minute (c) you’re tired and don’t want to have a lot of prep or clean-up mess.

What’s lovely about this cake, healthwise, is its got a higher protein and fiber profile and contains slower carbs. I will say that although this recipe is called chocolate cake it’s sort of a hybrid between a cake and brownie but delicious nonetheless. I didn’t use frosting but I recommend you do if you want a more heightened flavor. I sprinkled powdered sugar and orange zest on top so that’s another option. I hope you enjoy it!

Comments

Trish – I am impressed that such a beautiful dessert contains chickpeas! This looks absolutely divine and I bet you enjoyed every bite. The conference sounds like so much fun! Beautiful photos! Enjoy your weekend!!

I’m very very surprised by the simple ingredients…and chickpeas! In cake?! Very interesting and cool ingredient behind the cake! People will remember this cake just because of the unique and simple ingredients. I like how you added the orange zest.

I Love this Trish! I have used beans in brownies but not in a cake yet, and chicpeas are such a favorite of mine! Maybe next year I’ll make it to the CIA with you! In the meantime, I think I have a can of garbanzos waiting to merge with some chocolate!

Hubbaroo, Trish! I so want to make this. I didn’t realize it was gluten-free till I read your post. That’s awesomeness! This will definitely go in my arsenal of gluten-free recipes. I’m glad that you got your Hubby’s approval on this, too. It’s always great to get a recipe that’s been tried and deemed worthy to share with others

Thanks also for your kind words, Trish! June 10th’s the day! Then, I’ll be on the road to R.D.ing… however long that may take… oy. But, I look forward to wherever the journey may take me!

Hi Trish,
I came to your blog from Gina’s. I can’t believe their are chickpeas in the that cake . Looks gorgeous! Thanks for sharing. I’ll make this for my husban.and he’ll never know, that it’s good for him. SShhh! Dont’t tell him.

What a great find! This cake looks delicious and I love the simplicity of it. I think the orange zest and powdered sugar on top sounds like the way to go. I love any combination of chocolate and orange!

ABOUT TRISH

Trish is passionate about helping others help themselves through a happy, healthy lifestyle. Dish by Trish is home to delicious meatless and wheatless recipes to keep us lean, clean and vibrant. Click here to learn more about Trish.